Storm Bert lashed Britain and Ireland today, bringing strong winds, snow and the risk of flooding, disrupting transport and leaving tens of thousands of households without power.
A man in his 60s was killed this morning in Hampshire, England, when a tree branch fell on his car.
A flood alert has been issued for many parts of England, Wales and Scotland, which has been covered in a thick layer of snow.
By afternoon, around 4,000 households were without power in central and south-west England and south Wales. Another 27,000 people were without power in Yorkshire and Lincolnshire, in northeast England, according to the companies that run the network.
A spokesman for the Energy Networks Association (ENA), Ross Easton, warned that the situation could worsen because “the worst is yet to come”.
In the west and north-west of Ireland, 60,000 homes, farms and businesses are also experiencing power cuts, public utility ESB said.
Many roads and railway lines were closed while ferry services were cancelled. Flooding is already being reported in western Ireland and Northern Ireland.
According to the British Met Office, in some areas snow is expected to reach 20-40 cm. In England the snowfall continues, accompanied by strong winds reaching 130 kilometers per hour.
Newcastle Airport, in the north-east, was closed due to the snow and aircraft were forced to divert and land in Belfast or Edinburgh.
Many football matches were cancelled.
Heavy rain is expected overnight and on Sunday in eastern and southern England.
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#Britain #Storm #Bert #transport #chaos #dead #Hampshire #falling #tree
In light of the challenges faced during Storm Bert, what specific policy changes or infrastructure improvements should be prioritized by governments to enhance community resilience against extreme weather events?
## World Today News Interview: Storm Bert Batters Britain and Ireland
**Host:** Welcome back to World Today News. Today we’re discussing the devastating impact of Storm Bert, which has brought treacherous conditions across Britain and Ireland, leaving a trail of disruption and destruction in its wake.
Joining me today to provide expert analysis are two distinguished guests. First, we have Dr. Fiona Evans, a leading meteorologist from the University of Cambridge, who can shed light on the storm’s formation and unusual intensity. And secondly, we have Mr. Liam O’Connell, Director of Emergency Response at the Irish Red Cross, who can share insights into the humanitarian impact and relief efforts underway.
Welcome to you both.
**Dr. Evans:** Thank you for having me.
**Mr. O’Connell:** It’s a pleasure to be here.
**Host:** Let’s begin by discussing the meteorological side of this event, Dr. Evans. Storm Bert is being described as unusually powerful for this time of year. Can you explain what factors contributed to its intensity and why it has caused such widespread disruption?
**Dr. Evans:** Absolutely. Several meteorological factors converged to create this powerful storm. We saw an unusual dip in the jet stream, which allowed for a rapid intensification of low pressure over the Atlantic. This, coupled with unusually warm sea surface temperatures, provided the necessary fuel for the storm to develop its strength.
Now, while winter storms aren’t unheard of in this region, the combination of heavy snow, strong winds, and the threat of flooding make Storm Bert particularly dangerous.
**Host:** Turning to the impact on communities, Mr. O’Connell, we understand that the storm has caused significant power outages, transport difficulties, and even fatalities. Can you tell us about the challenges faced by both emergency responders and those affected by the storm?
**Mr. O’Connell:**
The impact of Storm Bert has been devastating for many communities. The power outages, particularly in rural areas, have left people vulnerable, especially the elderly and those with medical conditions.
Transport disruptions have added to the difficulties, making it challenging for emergency services to reach those in need. We’ve seen road closures, cancelled ferries, and even airport shutdowns. Our teams are working tirelessly to provide emergency shelter, food, and essential supplies to those affected.
**Host:** That’s truly inspiring to hear about the work being done. Dr. Evans, how does climate change factor into the increasing frequency and intensity of such storms?
**Dr. Evans:** This is a crucial question. While it’s difficult to attribute any single weather event directly to climate change, scientists have predicted an increase in the frequency and intensity of extreme weather events.
Warmer oceans provide more energy for hurricanes and storms, and a changing climate can disrupt weather patterns, leading to more prolonged and severe weather events.
**Host:** Mr. O’Connell, as we look ahead, what are the key lessons from Storm Bert that can help communities better prepare for future extreme weather events?
**Mr. O’Connell:**
This storm serves as a stark reminder of the vulnerability of our infrastructure and the importance of preparedness. We need to invest in more resilient infrastructure, improve early warning systems, and ensure that communities have access to emergency resources and support.
It’s also crucial to raise awareness about the risks of extreme weather and empower individuals to take steps to protect themselves and their families.
**Host:** Thank you both for sharing your valuable insights. This destructive storm highlights the urgent need for a global approach to mitigate the impact of climate change and build more resilient communities.
We’ll continue to follow the situation closely and bring you updates on the recovery efforts in the days to come.
